By Ken Afor
Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governor’s Forum (NGF), AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman has disclosed that Mr. Asishana Bayo Okauru, the long-serving Director General of the NGF, has announced his retirement after 15 years at the helm of the organization.
Okauru’s exit from the Forum takes effect from July 1, 2024.
In a statement released by the NGF Chairman, praised Okauru’s exceptional leadership and the significant growth of the NGF secretariat under his tenure.
He noted that Okauru is leaving his position to pursue other interest.
“Mr. Okauru has served the NGF for an unbroken 15 years. He has served with diligence, professionalism, honesty, loyalty and total commitment,” AbdulRahman said. “We are incredibly proud of the work he did here and the height he and his team have taken the forum.”
Under Okauru’s leadership, the NGF secretariat evolved into a strong administrative arm that expanded engagement with government and development partners while ensuring states’ priorities were met, according to the chairman.
“We are incredibly proud of the work he did here and the height he and his team have taken the forum,” AbdulRahman stated. “We are grateful for Mr. Okauru’s service and wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”
Okauru, 63, will remain with the NGF until his pre-retirement leave begins on July 1, 2024. No announcement was made regarding his potential successor.
The NGF is a platform for state governors to collectively discuss, exchange views and promote cooperation among Nigeria’s 36 states. The search for Okauru’s successor is expected to begin in the coming weeks.
